Bio

Miles Thompson is a freelance trumpet player and educator. He is dedicated to sharing the beauty of music with others and facilitating growth in every one of his students.

Born and raised in Durham, NC, Miles started playing trumpet at age 11, and continued to play throughout middle and high school. Led by his band director Chris Hathcock, Miles was exposed to symphonic, marching band, and jazz music. During this time, he also had the chance to explore new trumpet methods with Durham trumpeter Al Strong.

Miles studied trumpet performance at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts with renowned artist and teacher Tiger Okoshi. In his time at Berklee, Miles became versed in many styles of music including jazz, pop, classical, and latin. Some of his educational highlights include studies with world famous bassist Victor Wooten, bandleader and trumpeter Greg Hopkins, and jazz drummer Billy Kilson.

While in Boston, Miles performed at Longy School of Music with Bill Banfield’s Imagine Orchestra, and special events throughout New England. He also played shows with the Tiger Wizard band and an opening slot for Lawrence.

Miles is a member of the Music Teachers National Association.

Educational Philosophy

Miles believes chiefly in facilitating his students’ growth by empowering them to take initiative for their own learning. He accomplishes this by guiding students through many methods and exercises and allowing them to pick the ones that work best for their individual development.